U.S. Department of the Interior Visits NAHETS

On May 2, 2007, the Nevada School of Construction and NAHETS Corporate offices hosted a visit by members of the U.S. Department of the Interior. Lynn Forcia, Division Chief of the Office of Indian Energy & Economic Development-Division of Workforce Development, as well has two of her colleagues, Jody LeCompte-Garrison and Francis Dunne, were taken on a tour of the Nevada Campus and Field Site by Debra Forbush, campus president, and Sharla Patterson, Native American Liaison.

Discussed were the three different levels of Heavy Equipment Operation offered, as well as the Crane Operation program and housing options for out-of-state students. Tuition costs, financial aid, job-placement assistance, and success stories of previous students were also topics of note. While at the field site campus representatives were able to discuss in detail seat time on equipment, practical field site projects, instructor qualifications, and unique teaching techniques, including the use of Ipod’s.

At NAHETS Corporate Offices, the group was given a tour by Mike Martens, Brian Thornton, and Rhett Nielson. Discussed were out Heavy Metal Program, and our soon-to-be implemented online course study. The online course was of particular interest to the visitors as it would potentially cut housing costs for out-of-state students as well as facilitate an intense study of material until a high level of proficiency is met.

They were very impressed with our program and have committed to give our education information to the Native American tribes they visit at least once a year. They also personally invited Sharla Patterson to their National Indian Economic Development Conference in Reno, Nevada on October 31, 2007.